Tangedco plans to repair hydropower stations as water level drops in dams

CHENNAI: Tangedco is preparing to start annual maintenance activities at its hydro power stations due to declining water levels in dams.

The state-owned power utility has approached the water resources department to complete these works in Tirunelveli, Kadamparai, Kundah and Erode circles and is awaiting approval.
Speaking to TNIE, an official said, “TANGEDCO manages 47 hydro power stations with a total installed capacity of 2,321.90 MW. Despite being operational, many of these stations have been affected by poor storage in the dams. There is a danger of sudden stoppage of power generation in the coming days.”
To deal with the situation, TANGEDCO has planned maintenance work to ensure uninterrupted operations and optimum production, the official said.
Another official said, “In Kundah Phase 1, there are three units with a combined installed capacity of 60 MW. Currently, only five megawatts are being used, generating 57,000 units on Thursday. However, two units are inoperative despite being in service.

During the maintenance process, important tasks such as identifying leaks, repairing pipeline damage, rectifying technical errors, replacing faulty stator coils and upgrading old equipment will be performed.
The official said that if there is good rainfall during summer, power generation can increase.
Depending on the scope of work, the power utility will allocate funds from its budget for these efforts, he said.